Dr Charles Day appointed CEO of Innovation and Science Australia

The University of Melbourne proudly welcomes the announcement today by Federal Industry, Innovation and Science Minister Greg Hunt of the appointment of Carlton Connect Initiative Project Director Charles Day to the position of Office of Innovation and Science Australia (OISA) Chief Executive Officer.

In 2011, Dr Day pioneered the development of the Carlton Connect Initiative (CCI), Australia’s premier STEM innovation precinct at the University of Melbourne.

In his new role, Dr Day will lead and support national long-term initiatives to boost innovation and science.

University of Melbourne Vice-Chancellor Glyn Davis said: "It is a tribute to Charlie’s skills that he has been asked to lead the development of Australia’s conversation and actions on innovation.

"While at the University of Melbourne Charlie took the concept of an innovation precinct and made into today’s reality of an inspiring hub of innovation, that brings industry and the public sector together with world leading academic research and entrepreneurial activity.

"We are proud that Charlie has been selected to help lead in driving Australia’s innovation agenda, we look forward to working closely with Innovation and Science Australia and wish Charlie well in this exciting role."

Dr Day said: ‘It has been a wonderful experience to work at the intersection between industry, the public sector and world leading academic research at the University of Melbourne.

"It has been a privilege to be part of the Carlton Connect Initiative journey and I am both honoured and excited to take on this role at Innovation and Science Australia."

At the Carlton Connect Initiative, Dr Day attracted major multinational partners to deepen their relationship with the University.

Working with academic colleagues, he co-founded the Melbourne Accelerator Program, named the eighth-best entrepreneurial accelerator in the world in 2015.

In 2015 the University of Melbourne announced that Science Gallery Melbourne, part of the acclaimed Global Science Gallery Network, would be located at the University’s innovation precinct.